So, you want to hang a mirror over your fireplace. Great choice! But, before you start drilling holes into your walls, let's make sure you don't end up looking like a giraffe with your neck craned up too high. Here are some rules to help you hang that mirror over the fireplace.
Size: Don't Make It Look Like a Tiny Hat
You know how they say size doesn't matter? Well, in this case, it does. Make sure your mirror is proportional to the size of your fireplace and room. A tiny mirror will look like a speck on the wall, while a massive one will swallow up the whole space. Find a mirror that adequately fills the space between the top of the mantel and the ceiling, and the width should never be wider than the mantelpiece or fireplace.
Infinity Black Mantel Mirror on cb2
Placement: Don't Be a Giraffe
We get it, you want to make sure your mirror is visible from everywhere in the room, but don't be a giraffe about it. Position the decorative mirror at eye level, and avoid tilting it, or you'll end up with a distorted reflection that'll make it look like a funhouse mirror.
Geometric mirror by the Brooklyn Studio via Houzz (photo: Francis Dzikowski)
Style: Don't Let It Clash Like a Bad Outfit
You wouldn't wear stripes with polka dots, right? So, don't let your mirror clash with your room's decor. A gilded frame mirror might look amazing in a traditional room, but in a modern space, it'll stick out like a sore thumb. Choose a style that complements your room's overall aesthetic.
Traditional gallery wall of mirrors by Aaron Colussi via Country Living
Shape: Don't Be (Only) a Square
Why be square when you can be fabulous? When choosing the shape of your mirror, consider the other elements in your room. If your space has a lot of straight lines, balance them out with a round mirror. If you're feeling bold, go for a uniquely shaped mirror that'll turn some heads. Your mirror can be a statement piece, so have fun with it!
Sunburst mirror over fireplace by Linda on The Home I Create
Frame: Don't Be in a Fixed Frame of Mind
To frame or not to frame? That's a question only you can answer. A frame can add some pizzazz to your mirror and tie it into your decor theme. But, if you're not feeling it, go for a frameless floating mirror that'll make your space look sleek and modern. Just remember, the frame should complement your room's aesthetic, not clash with it.
Timeless round mirror via jane_athome
Hardware: Don't Make It Fall Like a Humpty Dumpty
When it comes to hanging a heavy mirror on drywall without the support of a stud, you don't want it to come crashing down. So, make sure to use drywall anchors that can bear the weight of your mirror. And if you're screwing into a stud, go for a 3-inch screw. For brick, you'll also need a wall anchor. Consider using plastic sleeve anchors for masonry or a masonry sleeve anchor for heavier mirrors. Mirrors that sit on the fireplace mantel must also be secured on top to prevent mishaps.
Gilt mirror over fireplace via Decorpad
Safety: Don't Melt Your Dreams Away
Listen, we know you're excited to show off your new mirror, but let's not burn down the house in the process. Most decorative wall mirrors can withstand the heat from a fireplace but you may want to take necessary precautions. Modern fireplaces, in particular, have no mantels, allowing hot air to rise unimpeded. Plus, you don't want to be the one responsible for melting all of your dreams away.
Stained glass mirror by Primi Mosaics
Now that you know the rules for hanging a mirror over a fireplace, you can confidently forge ahead and avoid looking like a giraffe with your neck craned up too high. Simply follow these expert tips to enhance your room and improve its overall appeal. Who knows, maybe you'll inspire your friends and family to do the same!
About Primi Mosaics
Primi Mosaics creates decorative wall mirrors that salute the past while enhancing the modern lifestyle. Inspired by turn-of-the-century designs of the Arts and Crafts movement, Frank Lloyd Wright and Art Deco, these mosaic mirrors bring a unique style and elegance to both modern and traditional decor. See some fireplace mantel mirrors now.